Will Stellenraad at The Musicquarium

I headed down to The Musicquarium to check out some old friends and a "New York heavy" in a straight-ahead organ trio setting. Now, I've been living in New York for the last five years (now back in Seattle), and certainly have heard my fair share of super-serious, ultra-heavy playing, especially on the guit-fiddle. The guitar playing I heard tonight was -- well, not reflective of those descriptions.

You'd be hard pressed to find two more happening guys to have backing you in an organ trio: Joe Doria, one of Seattle's most visible and ecclectic orgainists (and pianist with my own group for a couple years); Matt Jorgensen, drummer, bandleader, and recording/internet developer extraordinaire. Matt played with as much fire and inspiration as I've ever heard him play, and Joe's happy and soulful approach is always a joy to hear. But Will Stellenraad still managed to disappoint me. I was not familiar with his playing going in, and had no expectations, but at times I felt like I was hearing somebody play jazz music for the first time. The majority of the music came from a groove-based mentality, certainly drawing on the jazz guitar lineage of Wes Montgomery, George Benson, and John Scofield. However, most of the time I felt like I was hearing a so-so player, or maybe somebody just coming into playing jazz from rock music. Why? Suspect time, lack of solo development, sometimes didn't really know the tunes -- need I go on? I am sure that Will's recordings are very good, and quite enjoyable listening, especially if you are a fan of groove-oriented music. But trust me -- we in the Northwest have never had a shortage of great guitar players -- Dan Heck, Dan Faehnle, Dan Balmer, Dave Peterson... -- and all of these guys would've left me with a better taste in my mouth. To all those people who ask me why I've returned to Seattle: my point has just been illustrated.

Comments

[2]

If you are a admired one, you can absolutely satisfied.What are you
scarf sets? Start your arcade traveling! Appearance Christian Abate Boots will accomplish you attending added stylish. The aboriginal is the Christian Shoes has 837 absolute credibility the name of cheap snapbacks are advised in accordance with the 1992.